Planning an end-of-year getaway? Keep things cool and experience the best that winter has to offer at these unique locations.
Jigokudani Money park, Japan
It’s not every day that you get to see a family of monkeys hanging out in a hot spring, but that is precisely what you can expect right here. At the Jigokudani Monkey Park, you can marvel at the adorable snow monkeys as they frolic and relax in the natural hot springs amidst the snowy landscape.
You can take a hike through the serene forest trails surrounding the park, enjoying the tranquility of nature. The park provides you with the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful photos of these unique macaques against the picturesque snowy backdrop.
Prague, Czech Republic
Winter in Prague offers a fairytale-like experience. There are several quintessential winter experiences you can have in Prague like exploring the enchanting Christmas markets, ice skating in the Old Town Square, taking a walk along the picturesque Charles Bridge, and warming up with delicious Czech food. While in Prague, you must also visit Prague Castle and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered city or take a boat tour on the Vltava River to create unforgettable winter memories.
Shimla, India
Winter in Shimla, India, is a charming and picturesque experience. Enjoy the snowfall and go skiing or snowboarding in Kufri. Take a stroll on the Mall Road and indulge in hot chocolate and the delicious local cuisine. Visit the iconic Christ Church and enjoy the panoramic views from the Jakhoo Hill. Shimla also hosts an ice skating carnival during winter. Be sure to see a very different side of India, and embrace the beauty of this hill station during the winter months.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland, Finland is a winter wonderland full of exciting activities. It’s here that you can experience some things that you can only imagine seeing on TV like dog sledding, embarking on a reindeer safari, witnessing the stunning Northern Lights, staying at an ice hotel or cross-country skiing. In fact, you can even live your childhood dream and visit Santa Claus Village. Lapland offers a magical winter experience like no other.
Tallinn, Estonia
During winter, Tallinn, Estonia offers a host of activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a stroll through the charming Old Town, adorned with snow-covered cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Experience the magic of ice skating at one of the outdoor rinks in the city. Warm up with a traditional Estonian beverage or visit cosy cafes to indulge in hearty local dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Christmas markets and experience the festive atmosphere.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Winter at Lake Bled, Slovenia offers a charming escape with activities such as ice-skating on the frozen lake, winter hiking to stunning viewpoints, sledding down hills, and exploring the medieval Bled Castle. Warm up with hot beverages by the lake and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Lake Bled in winter is a dreamy destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Lithuania
Lithuania is a picturesque country in Europe which is lesser known by people in our region. The cities of Vilnius and Kaunas are popular for their beauty, and certainly should be added to your list if you’re planning a winter getaway. Make sure to pay a visit to the historic Trakai Castle in Lithuania which organises traditional winter festivals that include outdoor activities like ice-skating and ice fishing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You can also tuck into some authentic Lithuanian cuisine at the finest restaurants including delicious Potato Blinis, hot pancakes served with sour cream, or some cold beet soup!
Visitors can also capture stunning winter photographs and relax at the cities’ saunas. The country promises a memorable experience for all!
Harbin, China
If you’re in need of a truly special winter experience, you might want to check out the world-famous Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. This unique event gives you the opportunity to marvel at stunning ice sculptures, go ice skating on the Songhua River, enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Harbin is a one-of-a-kind winter paradise not to be missed.
New York, USA
Winter in New York offers a plethora of activities. You can ice skate at Rockefeller Center, explore Central Park, visit holiday markets like Union Square, watch Broadway shows, or enjoy the stunning views from the Empire State Building. Indulge in warm comfort food and experience the magical holiday atmosphere that only New York can provide.
